How to Choose the Best Cotton Candy Machine?
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Top Best Cotton Candy Machines Based on Reviews and Price
How to Choose a Cotton Candy Machine?
Cotton candy is a unique treat. It is derivable using a very special machine that melts the sugar, then projects it into the air using a stream of hot air. This method of preparation gives it, its characteristic aerial texture.
The cotton candy machine is quite old. Its invention dates back to 1897. And the least we can say is that it was quite bulky! Generations of gourmets have tasted cotton candy at the funfair. Now, home appliance manufacturers are offering miniaturized versions. And, today, it is now possible to taste authentic cotton candy at home. Of course, this depends on the machine you lay your hands upon. This is why you have to put some keen attention on some criteria, if you don’t want it to end in your waste bin, as soon as it’s bought.
Top 10 Factors to Consider Before Buying a Cotton Candy Machine
#10 The Purpose of Usage
Before you start looking for the perfect cotton candy machine, it’s essential to think about what you need it for.
- Is it a question of snacking on a delicacy occasionally or of being able to treat guests at your events (weddings, birthdays, etc.)?
- Are you looking for a portable device?
- Do you want a simple and fun machine that children can use, or a powerful one?
A mid-range machine may be sufficient for a family reunion or when inviting a few friends. If it is a question of offering cotton candy to many guests, it becomes essential to opt for a device capable of operating continuously and producing a fairly rapid flow.
It is, therefore, preferable to invest in a high-end and efficient machine equipped with a large sugar tank. This type of model will be heavier (more than 10 kg) and therefore less easy to transport.
#9 Tank Size
The size of the sugar tank is a key criterion to consider while choosing a cotton candy machine. A spoon of sugar makes a mini cotton candy (about the size of a grapefruit).
It is a good choice for children or for a candy bar. On the other hand, if you want to make cotton candy comparable to the quantity needed at fairgrounds, you will have to opt for a bigger tank. There are cotton candy machines that can produce up to 4 candies in a single minute. These types of machines usually have a large tank and can serve close to 300 people in less than 2 hours.
#8 The Power
The power of your cotton candy machine influences its performance. Apparently, a powerful cotton candy machine can quickly make your cotton candy. And, in addition, there are more versatile types now. The power of a cotton candy machine is between 250 and 2500W. This power varies according to the size and the possibilities that the machine offers.
Meanwhile, the most common models are around 450 to 500W. Below this, it will take approximately ten minutes of heating and about 5 minutes to prepare a cotton candy. A power of more than 1000W ensures a rapid rise in temperature and excellent performance (2 cotton candy/minutes). These are suitable for persistent and large productions.
#7 Important Features
Most cotton candy machines are simply equipped with an on/off switch. Only high-end machines are equipped with a thermostat and/or a heating switch.
Whatever type of model you choose, it must be very stable. If you opt for a light model (2kg or less), choose a foot machine equipped with a suction cup.
Above 2kg, non-slip feet are recommended. If you stick to the manufacturer’s recommended dose, you shouldn’t have too much flying sugar. But splash protection is always welcome.
#6 Construction Material and Design
A cotton candy maker needs high temperatures to produce results. Hence, poor quality plastic construction materials can, under this temperature, melt. This type can also leech toxins into the candy. So, the advice is that you only choose materials with stainless steel builds. If you have to choose plastic, ensure it is free from Bisphenol A (BPA), especially around the cotton candy dispensing area.
In terms of design, cotton candy machines are generally colored to fit the festive aspect of their function. You can opt for scarlet red and white, reminiscent of Circassian color, or pink-like cotton candy of yesteryears. They contribute to the aesthetics factor of the environment, even before preparation!
This criterion is essential if you are looking for a cotton candy machine for a particular occasion. But the cotton candy machine is, first of all, a food-processing appliance, and it is important to prioritize safety and performance before considering aesthetics.
#5 Versatility
What cotton candy sugar does the machine use? This is an important question that you need to ask yourself before considering choosing your machine and making the candy. The answer to this question will take into account the tastes of all consumers of the resulting candies. For this, it is advisable to choose a machine that stands out for its versatility.
You can have among your guests or your children some who do not have a great tolerance for sugar. It would, therefore, be important to opt for a versatile machine, which uses sugarless candies and different varieties of syrup. There’s a variety of choices for everyone’s satisfaction. With a versatile cotton candy machine, you can transform:
- Hard candies
- Normal sugars
- Syrups
- Special sugars
It will bring you satisfaction, in addition to helping you save money.
In terms of texture, we advise you to opt for a Fairy Floss machine which will obtain fine, soft, or hard textures. Versatile models may be useful in this regard. You can, however, opt for a full uni-functional model, which is naturally more expensive.
#4 Sugar and Hard Candies
Cotton candy is made of crystal sugar, which is most normal. Cotton candy blends are just sugar, color, and flavor.
And you have to know that they are quite expensive. You can use classic sugar, and optionally add food coloring or fruit juice. This way, it will be more economical and healthier.
There are now models of machines that work with both sugar and hard candies, in all price ranges. This is particularly the case of the Gadgy® and the Simeo FC355 cotton candy machines.
This allows you to make lighter cotton candies, by opting for low sugar candies. It’s an interesting option for gourmets who find it hard to resist the temptation!
#3 Paper Cone or Wooden Stick?
If you are a beginner – or you want children to be able to make their own cotton candy – bet on wooden sticks, which are easier to handle.
Whether wood or paper, choose reusable models. They’re more economical and ecologically friendly.
#2 Ease of Use
The ease of use of the machine will determine whether it’ll remain with you for a short or long period. It is important here that the machine can be easily washed after each use. This is more important given the fact that cotton candy is made essentially from sugar. There is the possibility that sticky sugar residues and food colors are deposited in the tank.
This means that before buying your machine, you must make your findings and ensure it is easily washable. For this, do not hesitate to ask questions on how to maintain your machine.
The better you maintain the machine, the longer it will last. And to make it easier for you, know that high power models are equipped with removable components, which can easily be washed without specific measures.
#1 The Possibility of Making Colored Cotton Candy
There’s one last straight line to cross before going to find where to buy a new cotton candy machine. This involves making sure that the machine which interests you can offer you cotton candy in color.
Indeed, the art of making cotton candy in color does exist. And what must be remembered is that you can practice it at home, provided you have a machine that allows you to make colored layers of cotton candy, one after the other. A good example is the GHP Commercial Pink Electric Cotton Candy Machine.
Final Verdict
To the delight of the young and old, the cotton candy machine is currently available for individual users. By following our advice, finding a suitable model for you will not be a difficult task.
The first criteria you will need to check is the nature of use and the overall dimensions for portability and ease of use. Also, the tank and power capacity and the options for maintaining and cleaning the device are important considerations.
However, if you’re looking to get the best deal when you buy your cotton candy machine, choose a versatile machine. This can work with hard candies, normal sugars, syrups, and special sugars.
In terms of texture, opt for a cotton candy machine that will allow you to have hard, fine and soft textures. Rest assured, the versatile models exist.
By doing a thorough search, you can find the cotton candy machine that suits you best. However, if you plan to rely on a complete model, you will need to prepare a fairly large budget. But it’ll definitely be worth it.
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